This Science Density STEM activity is a simple and effective observation lab to demonstrate how density is different between various substances and how it is calculated. This Science Density STEM activity has 3 parts:

The Science density lab, where you freeze an empty water bottle, observe what happens when you take it out of the freezer and then go over density lab questions with your learners.

A density drawing activity using the density drawing worksheets.

A density calculating activity using the science density calculations worksheet.

Use this Science Density STEM Activity in your middle school Science classroom once your students already know:

• the composition of molecules and atoms

• the states of matter

• how temperature affects molecular movement

• the law of conservation of mass

• Rules for Science

Density is one of my favorite topics and there are so many ways to demonstrate and explain the phenomenon. 

If you also have a Science room with limited lab capabilities, but you do have a freezer this Science Density STEM Activity might be just right for you. 

My learners were so amazed to see how their water bottles crunched overnight. Living in Minnesota, a lot of learners also had stories to tell about how water bottles left in cars overnight would break, when made out of glass and filled with water. (I definitely have stories like that) 

Density needs to be explained on a molecular level, which needs lots of models. Using the drawing model is a simple way for learners to “create” their own different density levels by first changing the mass and then changing the volume. 

Drawing and the resulting visuals is also a great way for language learners to grasp the concept. Also, remember to use the Science Sentence Starters with your class. 

If you need help with the actual lesson planning for this law of conservation of mass lab, check out your FREE guide:

The 4Ds of Lesson Planning Science

In which file format will I receive the resource?

Not-editable secured PDF file

What does this resource include?

• Observation Density Lab prep notes

• Teacher Tips

• 2 Density Drawing Worksheets

• 1 Science Density Calculations Worksheet

What can this material be used for?

• 6th grade science projects

• 6th grade science experiments

• Properties of matter unit

• Language inclusive classroom

• CLIL - content and language integrated learning

Other ideas that might be helpful for you:

NEW FREE GUIDE: The 4 Ds of lesson planning science

Science Sentence Starters

Rules for Science

Team Roles for Group Projects

Law of Conservation of Mass Lab

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